Etcetera @ The Movies: Apocalypto

Apocalypto tells the story of a Mayan warrior, Jaguar Paw. When his tribe is attacked by another tribe and subjugated into slavery, Jaguar is separated from his pregnant wife and young son.

The film tells the story of Jaguar Paw’s journey away from his family and what he does to get back to them.

That’s it. That’s the movie. It’s a simple storyline, but an engaging one. And in a sense, this idea could be played out in any number of settings, not just a pre-Columbian Mayan forest.

The cinematography is gorgeous and stunning, shot digitally on high-definition Genesis cameras. The actors, all non-professionals, do a fantastic job. Very understated and completely convincing. The communal nature of the tribe gives us some touching and hilarious moments… in the first thirty minutes.

Now, let’s talk about the remaining 107 minutes.

If you’re going to Apocalypto, you first need to know it’s brutal on a level I’ve never seen onscreen before. Not sure if it’s for you? Take this litmus test: There’s a scene where a Mayan warrior is unexpectedly impaled from the front on a series of sharp spikes. The shot from behind shows the spikes lined with blood and fatty tissue from his body. Can you handle that? It’s visceral to be sure, but actually doesn’t feel like it’s being done just for effect. Just know what you’re in for.


There are a few weak spots in the film, including a deus ex machina at the middle turning point that’s just a little too convenient for me.

Also, the extended ending action sequence is exciting, but strained, at times even bordering on silly. I don’t mind a long movie, but not if it would be better by being shorter.

One last note: the film is subtitled. There’s not much dialogue, but what’s there is strong. Even for the subtitled movie novice, it’s not going to distract and really does add an element of authenticity.

Overall, Apocalypto is a beautiful and brutal film, one that certainly wouldn’t be in theaters if Mel Gibson’s name weren’t above the title (read the posters, it’s billed as Mel Gibson’s Apocalypto). It’s the antithesis of a typical big-budget studio film-- obscure location and time period, no ‘name' actors, pervasive and extreme violence-- and yet, here and there, it relies on some standard Hollywood conventions. It’s not perfect, but is nonetheless original and daring, a bold piece of filmmaking that will leave you emotionally exhausted.

* * * * (out of 5)

Rated R for sequences of graphic violence and disturbing images
Running time: 137 minutes

OPENS FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8th


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